Public Wi-Fi

Robinson Memorial Hospital provides free wireless Web access (Wi-Fi) to all visitors and patients. Wi-Fi technology allows computers and PDAs to send and receive Internet data via a wireless network. This service is provided on the main hospital campus.

During visits to the hospital, users can access the Wi-Fi connection by calling the guest Internet phone number from any hospital phone, and receive a user ID and password. Users must have their own equipment (i.e. laptop or PDA), wireless card and software to access the wireless connection.

Robinson Memorial Hospital will not be responsible for lost or stolen equipment. Robinson Memorial Hospital is also unable to provide support for equipment or to troubleshoot wireless connections.
As with any public wireless network, we strongly recommend guests take measures to secure their devices and Internet communications. We encourage using virtual private networks in conjunction with personal firewalls and virus protections to mitigate risk to personal data.

It is the user's responsibility to take precautions and provide security measures suited to their situation and intended use of the service. Our wireless network should not be used for inappropriate or unlawful purposes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What is a wireless network?
A: A wireless network works much the same way as other computer networks, except there are no cables or wires involved. A device with built-in wireless capabilities or a special wireless network card is required instead. When properly configured, your computer will communicate with a dedicated network, providing you access to the Internet that's similar to the access you already enjoy at home or work.
Q: What do I have to do to connect?
A: In brief, you just need a properly configured wireless device. You will need to obtain a security password by calling ext. 70101 from any hospital phone. When you first connect you'll be presented with our Terms and Conditions of use. When you accept them, the Internet will be available to you.
Q: Where and when can I connect?
A: Connection is available anywhere on the main campus of Robinson Memorial Hospital.
Q: Are there costs involved?
A: No. This service is free. We do not charge you for this, nor is the cost passed on to your insurance company.

Q: What equipment do I need?
A: Wireless device: You must provide your own laptop computer or PDA. Most PC's, Pocket PC's, and Mackintosh computers should work so long as they are properly configured and have an appropriate wireless network card.
Wireless Card: You need to provide your own wireless network card. Some new devices have the wireless card built in - otherwise it will probably be inserted into a PCMCIA slot on the side of the laptop or the top of a PDA.
Supported wireless formats: Your network card must support either 802.11b or 802.11g. Though there are other industry standards, they are not implemented.
Browser: Your device must use a standard Internet browser such as Internet Explorer, America Online, Netscape, or Safari.

Q: What if I don't have a wireless card?
A: For the most part, wireless cards are very standardized and may be purchased online or from virtually any retail electronics store. While we cannot help you install the card, we do offer instructions that will help you configure most properly installed cards to work in the hospital.

Q: How secure is my Internet session?
A: Wireless networks are 'shared' among all users and, by that very nature, are public. All public networks lack the high level of security you may be accustomed to at work and home. We encourage you to be careful when sending personally identifiable or sensitive information. However, if the Web sites you visit support the industry standard SSL encryption, and most do, our network connection to that site is as secure as if you were on a standard wired network.

Q: My network connection works (the lights flash), but I can't connect with the Internet?
A: You are probably set up to use a proxy server. In Internet Explorer, click on Tools, then Internet Options, then Connections, then LAN Settings. Make sure the "Use a proxy server..." option is unchecked. If you change it, remember to recheck it when you leave.

Q: If I am having trouble connecting to the Internet, who can I call for help?
A: Unfortunately, privacy and liability concerns prevent us from working on your computer. Robinson Memorial Hospital is unable to provide support for equipment or to troubleshoot wireless connections. Please refer to your owners' manual or seek other support services for assistance.